How do you verify location accuracy?

1 Research the location

Before you scout or book a location, you need to do some preliminary research to find out if it suits your needs. You can use online tools, such as Google Maps, Street View, or satellite images, to get a general idea of the location's layout, surroundings, and accessibility. You can also look for photos, videos, or reviews of the location from previous users or visitors. However, online research is not enough to verify location accuracy, as it may not reflect the current or accurate state of the location. You also need to consider factors such as weather, traffic, noise, lighting, and security, which may vary depending on the time and date of your shoot.

2 Visit the location

The best way to verify location accuracy is to visit the location in person and inspect it thoroughly. You should visit the location at least once before you shoot, preferably at the same time and day as your planned schedule, to check the conditions and potential issues. You should also bring your camera, your script, and your production team, to test the shots, the angles, and the sound quality. You should take notes, photos, and videos of the location, and compare them with your online research and your creative vision. You should also talk to the owner, the manager, or the local authorities, to confirm the availability, the permissions, and the fees of the location.

3 Prepare the location

Once you have verified the location accuracy, you need to prepare the location for your shoot. You need to secure the location by signing a contract, obtaining a permit, or notifying the relevant parties. You need to clear the location of any unwanted or hazardous elements, such as trash, furniture, or wires. You need to set up the location according to your script and your design, such as props, costumes, or lighting. You need to coordinate with your crew, your cast, and your suppliers, to ensure that everyone knows the location's address, directions, and rules. You need to have a backup plan in case of any changes or emergencies, such as weather, equipment, or personnel.

4 Review the location

After you have shot at the location, you need to review the location accuracy and make sure that it meets your expectations and standards. You need to review the footage, the audio, and the photos that you have captured at the location, and check for any errors, inconsistencies, or improvements. You need to edit, adjust, or enhance the location's appearance, sound, or mood, using software or techniques such as color grading, sound mixing, or visual effects. You need to respect the location and its owners, by cleaning up, restoring, or repairing the location as you found it. You need to thank, credit, or compensate the location and its owners, by sending a note, a gift, or a payment.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?